Are you looking to start an apprenticeship in the hazardous mineral products industry? Do you have great team management, people skills and would love to work in a dynamic and ever-changing industry? If so then why not consider applying for the Level 5 (higher education) Mineral products technician apprenticeship, and earn whilst you learn on the job.
Occupation summary – what is a mineral product technician?
Mineral product technicians are responsible for making sure that sufficient materials and products are available to meet customer requirements. This occupation is located within the large hazardous Mineral Products industry which includes deep mining and quarrying. This industry sector forms a vital contribution to the UK economy – with a turnover of £495 billion. The industry is responsible for providing raw materials that make up major infrastructure and building projects. In addition to this, it is also equally important for mineral product technicians to ensure that all health & safety, and environmental & quality requirements are met.
In addition to this, within the daily role as a Mineral product technician, you will interact with several colleagues and partners both internally and externally. There is a hybrid working space, with a mixture of working from within an office as well as working on-site.
Typical responsibilities within the job include:
Working with all members of the management team to continually monitor and supervise environmental, health and, safety measures within the business.
Optimising the effectiveness of the team by joining reoccurring briefings and meetings.
Assisting the sales team, as well as customers in ensuring that the highest standards of customer service is maintained.
Ensuring that all production equipment and systems are maintained to the highest standards, as well as ensuring that all equipment and systems meet current quality standards.
An employee within this occupation will be responsible for the safe operation of the site and maximising productivity on it. Mineral product technicians are employed in a wide range of extractive industries, including quarrying, concrete production, cement manufacture, cementitious products and clay manufacture (to name a few). These are the key specialist areas that are aligned with the apprenticeship:
Mineral extraction
Asphalt and Pavements
Concrete (Ready-mix and Precast)
Clays (Heavy and White)
Cement and Cementitious products
What Skills and Behaviours would I need?
Above all, it is important that a Mineral Product Technician demonstrates the following traits and skills. However, whilst completing an apprenticeship you’re learning on the job and so no doubt you’d pick up these skills along the way. The following are ideal requirements:
Some skills include:
Working competently, safely, and manage risks following HSE regulations.
Use knowledge of emergency response processes and procedures to deal with emergencies.
Recommend support and improvements to environmental, health, and safety culture, procedures, processes, and systems across the operation.
Apply root cause analysis.
Maximise the use of the resources, maximise products from raw materials, ensuring the sustainability of resources.
Some behaviours include:
A strong personal commitment to health, mental wellbeing, safety, and the environment.
Leads from the front setting a high example to all employees.
Works within the company policies, procedures and regulations at all times.
Enhances existing procedures, and contributes to a safer and more effective working environment, by identifying improvements to be made.
Encourages innovation and supports suggestions and feedback.
Entry Requirements for the Level 5 – Mineral Product Technician Apprenticeship
Apprentices without level 2 English and Maths will need to achieve this level before taking the End-Point Assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. A British Sign Language (BSL) qualification is an alternative to the English qualification for those whose primary language is BSL.
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Firstly, Are you ready to kickstart your career in Operations within the Manufacturing world? Do you have great communication and organisation skills and want to put these to valuable use? Most certainly, are you passionate about being a part of a team and providing an important responsibility? If so, consider joining the Level 2 – Mineral Processing Weighbridge Operator Apprenticeship and earn whilst you learn and gain experience.
Level 2 – Mineral Processing Weighbridge Operator Apprenticeship Job Criteria
The tasks of the Mineral Processing Weighbridge Operator will be varied; no day is the same. You will be acting as the ‘go to’ person for the operational site and have responsibilities of specific tasks for example, controlling vehicle movements, contractors, authorised personal and members of the public.
But firstly, what is a Weighbridge Operator?
A Weighbridge Operator in short, is responsible for loading large goods vehicles onto the weighbridge and making sure their load weights are following regulations. Therefore, they are responsible for health & safety of the operation, the logistics and more.
The job criteria typically includes but isn’t limited to:
Arranging transport of LGV vehicles and controlling logistics to fulfil the order schedule within time restrictions and shelf life of products
Understanding and knowing specific regulations that apply to their operation and be able to stop work if they identify a breach
Liaising with customers and providing excellent customer service at all levels (phone and face to face)
Communicating effectively with members of staff and hauliers on a daily basis
Weighing vehicles into the site via the weighbridge and directing them to the correct locations on site,
Weighing and inspecting vehicles that have been loaded to ensure they are correctly loaded and/or secured and fit for the public roads
Geographical awareness as well as knowledge of LGV operator rules and regulations
Some sites operate 24/7 so shift and night working may be required
What do I need to know to perform this role?
Not sure on what is required to perform the Mineral Processing Weighbridge Operator role? Have no fear, we are here to help! To clarify, you are going to have:
An understanding of the hazards and risks of operating weighbridge equipment in accordance with company policies and procedures,
Knowledge of the importance of health & safety by reporting all potential hazards such as near-misses and dangerous occurrences
The importance of minimising fuel/waste and environmental impact of work activities
Great communication for every day and emergency situations
Product knowledge to be able to perform visual checks and more.
What Skills and Behaviours do I need?
No doubt you will already have a few of these skills and behaviours under your belt, but here is what you need to become a successful, efficient and reliable Mineral Processing Weighbridge Operator:
Skills:
Operational
Sustainability
Planning and Organising
Clear Communications
Product Knowledge and Company procedures/policies
IT and office based skills
People Skills – Teamwork and building trusting relationships internally and externally
Behaviours:
Professional Judgement
Commitment to code of ethics
Identifying and continuing personal development
Commitment to equality and diversity
A passion for health, safety and the environment
Excellent customer service
Proactive in innovation
Read more on the Skills and Behaviour requirements here.
Many skills across different sectors in the working world are transferrable without you even knowing. For instance, having the skills and behaviours above not only will grant you your career path but will guide you through many aspects of life. In addition, it is important to understand that communication and people skills are key. During this Apprenticeship you will learn to become a natural communicator.
Entry Requirements for the Level 2 – Mineral Processing Weighbridge Operator Apprenticeship
Above all, there are some requirements to be able to apply for this role to be able to meet regulations within the Manufacturing Industries. An MPQC Level 3 Diploma in Weighbridge Operations must be achieved and for those who do not have English and Maths, this can be taken during the Apprenticeship before the End Point Assessment.
For those who do have prior education, health and care plan or a legacy statement the English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. Please note: British Sign Language qualification is accepted if this is your primary language.
Conclusion
To sum up, the Level 2 – Mineral Processing Weighbridge Operator Apprenticeship is a perfect way to jump aboard a Manufacturing Career path, whilst gaining experience and skills that will last a lifetime. If you are interested in earning whist you learn and want to find out more about some of our other approved apprenticeships in the UK then please visit our website.
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Are you eager to jump into the world of welding? If so, read on to kickstart your career in this industry.
But first, what is welding?
Welding is used significantly and in almost every sector of industry. General welders are a high demand for skilled General Welders in industry areas such as: automotive, marine, transport, general fabrication, construction, and many more.
General
Welders produce items like components for cars; ships; rail vehicles; simple
metallic containers; and steelwork for bridges, buildings, and gantries.
Skilled, qualified, professionally certified General Welders can work anywhere in the world and provide services in the harshest of environments. For these accomplished professionals, the monetary rewards can be significant.
What skill requirements do you need for the apprenticeship?
Produce good quality welds using two welding process/material type combinations
Receive, handle, and maintain consumables
Attain a qualification in accordance with one of the following standards: ISO 9606 / ASME IX / BS4872 / AWS D1.1, determined by the employer. N.B. These qualifications are regarded as licenses to practice welding.
Achieve quality of work to meet international standards for dimensional and surface inspection (Visual, Magnetic)
To prepare and check the welding equipment
Complete and check the work ready for inspections
To ensure health and safety requirements are reported
What knowledge will you gain in this apprenticeship?
To be aware of the basic mechanical properties and weldability.
To understand the common arc welding processes, joint types, and positions.
To understand the major components of welding equipment and the essential parameters for welding.
To understand the terminology, operation, and controls for the selected arc welding processes, joint types, and welding positions.
To be able to identify and understand the causes of typical welding defects and how their occurrence can be reduced, for the materials and welding processes selected.
To know the basics of welding
Knowing the basics of welding documents
Behaviours:
A questioning attitude, to
understand the processes and associated industrial applications. Maintaining
competence with a commitment to Continuing Professional Development.
Planning and preparation
to ensure production and Continuing Professional Development goals are
achieved.
Intervention, to challenge
poor practices and channel feedback to the appropriate authorities to implement
change.
Entry requirements:
Practical skills are considered as important as academic ability. Dependent on the employer, they will set their own specific selection criteria on what requirements you would need.
Generally, you are required to have successfully achieved level 1 in English and Mathematics and to have also taken your examinations at level 2 for both these subjects, within the period of apprenticeship if these had already not been achieved.
General Welders are fully competent in manual welding using at least one arc process. They are also required in a number of sectors, for example, the steelwork construction sector.
Conclusion:
This general welding apprenticeship is a great way to start your career in the manufacturing field. You will need to understand the process as well as ensuring all goals are achieved. This apprenticeship qualification is a great starting point and being able to work your way up from. Once you are certified, this can allow you to work from anywhere in the world in any industry. This can be just the starting point of your lifelong career in welding!
For more information on engineering and manufacturing-based apprenticeship, visit our dedicated page here.
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From creating quality craftsmanship to undertaking critical, precision orientated tasks, in the Advanced Furniture CNC Technician Apprenticeship you’ll be exposed to the multitude of responsibilities and challenges which come with understanding Computer Numerically Controlled machinery. Not only that, with this rewarding earn-while-you-learn role you will see your work used everywhere and anywhere: from your coffee table at home, to the chair at your local pub.
What will I learn as a CNC technician apprentice?
In this exciting and technical role, you will undertake a number of duties which are designed to help you meet the KSB competencies you’re required to demonstrate. There are 12 occupational duties in total which you will undertake, these vary from setting up, operating and maintaining CNC machinery, identifying and rectifying any faults within the furniture production process, and checking that all furniture produced fits quality standards and necessary specifications. The duties you carry out will ensure that within the 24 months you’ll develop a solid understanding of how the furniture CNC process works. And more importantly, you’ll understand how to effectively use the processes in a safe and dependable manner.
How will I be assessed in the apprenticeship?
For this apprenticeship, your performance will be judged against a variety of KSBs; these are different competencies relating to knowledge of your role and industry, skills you’ve developed within your role, and behaviours you undertake when working both independently and with your team. In total there are 28 knowledge, 23 skill and 12 behaviour competencies which you will be judged against.
To demonstrate your knowledge, you’ll be expected to understand the technical processes within CNC and how to fix any problems that arise with machinery, as well as having an in-depth understanding of machine maintenance.
To demonstrate the skills you’ve developed, you’ll be expected to show how you’d set up and operate CNC machinery, whilst using appropriate safety measures and procedures. Another skill demonstration will involve showing how furniture can be modified from CAD drawings to suit the CNC processes you’ll be using.
To demonstrate behavioural developments in your role, you’ll be expected to show how you’ve displayed integrity in your work, how you’ve asked questions to further understand your responsibilities, and how you perform with minimal supervision.
The Apprenticeship Standard
This apprenticeship typically lasts for 2 years, however this does not include your EPA period. Upon completion, you will have attained a level 3 qualification in the role and it will set you up to further advance your education and career in the engineering and manufacturing industry. Maximum funding you’ll receive for the course is £11,000 and the apprenticeship is provided by Ofqual.
What qualifications do I need to apply?
If an exciting career in furniture engineering is what you’re looking for, this apprenticeship is certainly a great way to kick-start that. Whilst there are no requirements for qualifications to apply and begin the apprenticeship, you must have achieved a level 2 in English and Maths prior to the End Point Assessment. However, if you have an education, health and care plan, or a legacy statement, an Entry level 3 for English and Maths is required before completing your EPA.
So, is this the right apprenticeship for you?
If you’re someone who isn’t afraid of a challenge, loves to fixate on the finer details and is inspired by a rewarding role which is pivotal in a process, then the Advanced Furniture CNC Technician Apprenticeship could be the perfect role to help you launch your career in the industry. Not only will you get paid whilst you develop crucial skills for the role and workplace, but you’ll also be exposed to a wide variety of tasks and responsibilities to ensure that you develop your understanding and your skills to the best of your ability.
To find out more and research other engineering and manufacturing apprenticeships, take a look here.
Fascinated by the field of high speed rail? Are you interested in getting involved with some hands-on experience whilst also gaining a reputable qualification? If so, the Level 4 High Speed Rail and Infrastructure Technician (HSRI) Degree will be perfect for you. This apprenticeship is ideal for anyone with the interest in high speed rail, whether you have just finished school or you’re looking for a new job opportunity.
The Role of a HSR Technician
High-speed rail is a specialist area of work and has job roles such as civil engineers, higher technicians in track, power and infrastructure, and operations managers. A HSRI Advanced technician has to provide technical solutions within the construction, maintenance and operations of a high-speed railway. Whilst on your apprenticeship you will be responsible for the safe design, construction, installation, maintenance and operation of a high-speed railway providing both a safe and reliable service for the customers. Throughout your apprenticeship you will develop skills and knowledge relating to high speed/conventional networks and infrastructure in order to manage the interface between the systems.
Core Technical Knowledge, Skills & Behaviours
Knowledge
Firstly, health and safety regulations pertaining to track
Identification, avoidance and mitigation of safety and health risks in design, construction, operation, maintenance and decommissioning
The factors of a track system, especially as applied to HSR
The differences between conventional and high speed track and the interfaces between the two systems
The essentials of constructing properly supported track bed
The impact of alignment, hydrodynamics (chiefly drainage) and geotechnics on track
Track geometry and the influence of speed
Impact of assets and structures on the track system
Processes associated with the planning, design, construction, monitoring, ongoing inspection, maintenance, renewal, repair and failure mechanisms of track
Manufacturing and construction methodology behind track
The range and use of specialist equipment and plant for track
The necessity of designing, planning, coordinating and supervising temporary works;
Lastly, environmental impact of the whole track lifecycle
Skills
Engage in processes that identify, avoid and mitigate safety and health risks in design and construction
Apply safety and health practice during planned and unplanned activities across the track lifecycle
Comply with legislation, processes and standards relating to the planning, design, construction, monitoring, maintenance, renewal, repair, manufacturing and construction methodology, disposal and environmental impact of track
Contribute to the design, construction, monitoring, maintenance, renewal, repair and decommissioning of track
Contribute to determining appropriate manufacturing and construction methodologies, including the decommissioning and environmental impact of track
Produce and interpret detailed technical documents, including the application of BIM and other regulated information systems
Account for the impact of alignments and geotechnics on track design, construction, maintenance and final system needs
Contribute to testing and commissioning including integration with other systems
Behaviours
Keeps a safe secure and healthy working environment through personal responsibility and behaviour
Is customer focused and is dedicated to improving the customer experience
Effective self-manage, prioritise and a proactively approaches work and continuous professional development.
Effectively lead
Acts professionally, shows commitment to the industry and employer, and is an effective ambassador for the employer
Is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, and act ethically with integrity and respect
Works flexibly, embraces change, handles ambiguity and accepts new ideas and ways of working
Uses effective communication skills to work collaboratively and to exchange constructive feedback
Entry Criteria for a Level 4 HSRI Technician
Thinking there’s a catch? Well there isn’t! Employers are mostly only requiring 5 GCSEs including both English and Maths. In addition to this, they would like to see A-levels, including maths or physics, or a BTEC. Upon completion, you will receive a Level 4 (Higher), which is equivalent to a foundation degree. Maximum funding for the apprenticeship will be £21,000, with a potential salary of £25,000 pa, once completed.
However, if you haven’t got your level 2 English and Maths certificates you will be able to do so before your end-point assessment.
For more information on apprenticeships take a look at our website
A woman writing on paper with a pen
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to start a career or even just grow your skills in the High Speed Rail and Infrastructure, this apprenticeship will help you to learn some valuable, useful skills. You may even want to see what else is out there, feel free to explore some different apprenticeships we have to offer in the engineering and marketing field.
More information on Engineering and Manufacturing opportunities can be found here.
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If you’re interested in footwear and would love to get involved with a highly respected and skilled trade – this new apprenticeship is one for you. This role includes exciting opportunities available with the likes of sportswear, high-street staples and luxury makers such as New Balance, Dr Martens, Cheaney Shoes and Gaziano & Girling.
History
The British footwear manufacturing industry, like Saville Row, supports the pursuit of excellence that embraces innovation and technology. With approximately 30 larger footwear manufactures in the UK and 60 smaller specialist ones, they together make up 5.6 million pairs of footwear that is exported and dotted around on our pavements from one street to another.
An artisanal craft that is greatly rewarding, footwear manufacturers are now looking for apprentices to join their small-scale operations making specialist or bespoke / personalised footwear. Depending on the company, your apprenticeship can have you working all the way up to larger factories with extensive teams and international departments, creating larger runs of footwear that can be exported overseas.
The Role of a Footwear Manufacturer
This Level 2 Apprenticeship teaches everything you need to know about the full end-to-end process on how to manufacture a piece of footwear.
Over the course of 12-15 months, you will learn how to work quickly and accurately use hand tools, technical equipment and machinery. You’ll learn how to follow briefs with specification for different types of footwear and learn how to create a majestic range of shoes with varied timescales and quality standards.
If you have a strong eye for detail and quality with a flare for design – this is one to consider!
Footwear manufacturers will join a team, reporting to Team Leaders, Supervisors or Owners as well as interacting with Production Managers, General Managers, Quality Managers and production colleagues. For those in a smaller team, you will also have possible access to clients and designers
Typical day-to-day duties of a Footwear Manufacturer include:
Cutting materials (mainly leather) by hand or by machine/laser
Skiving (thinning materials)
Closing (sewing the upper part of the footwear)
Lasting (forming the footwear)
Attaching the sole either cemented or stitched
Finishing the footwear
Quality inspection and packing to company specification
This falls under the engineering and manufacturing route with maximum funding of £5000.
Core Requirements – Knowledge & Skills
Health, Safety & the Environment
Safe working practices to minimise hazards and risks from storing equipment to maintaining work procedures
Health & Safety legislation to your area of responsibility for others and the environment
Effective use of equipment and safe working methods
Hazard and risk identification in the work area
Footwear Construction Process
Learning the importance of brand quality standards with attention to detail throughout
Understanding footwear construction terminology as well as sizing and variations of production for different product types
Gaining insight on materials, machinery and equipment required for each stage of the production process
Footwear Materials Tools & Equipment
Understanding the characteristics, properties and behaviour of a variety of materials and components used in footwear construction and their suitable application (such as high quality leather for premium footwear or softer materials for ballet dance shoes)
Identification of production problems and correct materials and components
Preparation for quality check and reporting faults to upper management
Learning advancements of production problems and associated corrective actions
Performing routine maintenance to ensure the efficiency of machinery, tools and equipment
Footwear Work Practices
Instilling company’s history, policy, brand values towards the customer base and product range
Helping run a cost effective workflow, following through on specification and appropriate work instructions to meet customer and company requirements
Implementing efficient and effective use of materials by closely following instructions and minimising waste
Undertaking processes to consistent speed and quality requirements as outlined by the company
Core Requirements – Behaviours
A proactive approach to Health & Safety procedures, personally and towards colleagues
Demonstrates a positive mind-set towards maintaining high standards of quality, precision and excellence
Self motivated, punctual individual who is flexible with change, new requirements and changing priorities
Team player that upholds equality and diversity in the workplace
Entry Requirements:
Individual employers will set the selection
criteria and specify the entry requirements applicable to their work.
Should you be without a Level 1 English and Maths certificate, you will be required to take a test for Level 2 prior to taking the end-point assessment towards the end of your contract.
For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, an Entry Level 3 and British Sign Language qualification will also be allowed.
Conclusion
There are plenty of training opportunities out there, whether you’re looking to up skill, grow dynamically or kickstart your career in another direction whether it’s design, engineering or marketing based. Feel free to browse our other apprenticeships to see what’s best for you.
More on Engineering and Manufacturing opportunities can be found here.
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Are you the kind of person who loves fashion and patterns to create new styles and designs? If this sounds like you, read on to discover the benefits and technical aspects of completing a Level 3 Fashion and Pattern Cutter apprenticeship. There’s lots to learn in a fashion role and this could be the start of your new career in an exciting and ever-changing industry.
Jobs and Entry Criteria for the Level 3 Fashion and Pattern Cutter Apprenticeship
Fashion and Pattern Cutter apprenticeships can lead to a career in the industry, with the average base salary at around £30k as you get more experienced. As an apprentice, your role may be ‘Assistant Pattern Cutter’ whilst you learn the ins and outs of the role.
It’s important to understand the entry requirements that you will need before enrolling for a Fashion and Pattern Cutter apprenticeship. Although entry requirements will be decided by your employer, you would typically be expected to have achieved an appropriate level of English and Maths in your GCSEs (at a C grade or higher).
If you don’t have these qualifications, don’t worry you
can still apply to the apprenticeship but ensure you have your English and Maths
grades before undertaking the End-Point Assessment.
If you have an education, health and care plan or a
legacy statement the apprenticeships English and Maths minimum requirements
will be Entry 3 for you. Additionally, British Sign Language is a recognised
qualification as an alternative to English, if this is yours or the applicant’s
primary language.
An Overview of the Role
You will be responsible for producing a variety of
products from clothing and fashion items and this might range from leather
goods, soft furnishings, marine and medical textiles.
It’s important to know who your potential employer might be; pattern cutters can be employed by a range of different sized businesses. The role will involve interpreting a product design brief and you will then draft patterns that reflect the design and technical specifications. You will become familiar with different pattern cutting methods like adjusting and shaping a standard pattern ‘block’, modifying a non-standard pattern base taken from the company library, or creating a pattern using ‘modelling’, which involves draping and pinning fabric over a mannequin and hand-cutting the fabric to form the pattern base. You’ll also learn how pattern production software packages are used using manual and computerised systems.
There are a lot of different layers to the role but
the key steps will include interpreting product design briefs and executing
these designs by producing product samples. You’ll also learn to adjust your
prototype patterns to meet the design and fit of the specification before
creating the final product.
Fashion and Pattern Cutter Apprentice – Knowledge
Supply Chain and Customer base – aware of quality
standards, timescales and production stages.
Aware of materials used in production and
characteristics– e.g. woven, knitted, non-woven.
Understand delivery timescales, production
deadlines etc
Be aware of the Quality Assurance
procedure – recognising any faults, errors and inspect products against
specifications.
Working Practices to be aware of:
Product Design Briefs, pattern construction techniques, standard and international sizing, measuring techniques, calculations, principles of grading, specialist terminology, tools, sample review techniques, computerised pattern production systems, technical documents and path management process to meet timescales and deadlines.
Understand the company’s communication protocol.
Policies and procedures: awareness of health, safety, welfare, environmental, workplace policies and understand legislative requirements.
Skills:
Understand design briefs.
Create template/block patterns.
Produce prototype patterns for given
designs, evaluate prototype patterns and produce the final master pattern.
Able to have good communication skills to
maintain good relationships and complete relevant documentation.
Behaviours:
Be responsible for work produced and
responsive to changes in priorities.
Demonstrate a methodical and calm approach
and work positively.
Be assertive and reflective on behaviour
to develop.
Have a safety-first attitude.
Conclusion
The Level 3 Fashion and Pattern Cutter apprenticeship is filled with opportunity to grow and learn more if this is the career path for you. The core skills, behaviours and knowledge competencies will be a great way to kickstart your new role. You could work with some large fashion businesses when you start your apprenticeship. Alternatively, if you’d like to learn of other Engineering and Manufacturing apprenticeships, we have a full list for you to browse.
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Do you love Boats, building, and repairing? Are you handy with tools, interested in engineering, or looking to change careers altogether? Read on to find out how the Level 3 Boatbuilder apprenticeship could land you your dream job and kick-start a new career!
Key responsibilities of the Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprenticeship
What does a Boatbuilder Apprentice do?
A boatbuilder apprentice builds boats such as yachts, workboats, and superyachts and/or refit and repair existing boats. A variety of different materials such as composites, metals, or wood will be used. A boatbuilder apprentice will learn to work with and understand the capabilities of these materials.
You will learn to read and interpret engineering and technical drawings to produce molds, jigs, plugs, and templates during your boatbuilder apprenticeship. As an apprentice, you will learn to use these to create complex shapes using and variety of measuring equipment, machines, and hand tools. You will be expected to work individually and as part of a team.
You will manufacture and assemble components that form the structure of a boat as well as the interior and exterior as a boatbuilder. A understand and compliance with organisational and statutory safety including sustainability requirements is a must.
During your apprenticeship, you will be responsible for the quality and accuracy of your work. Apprentices should eventually be able to work with minimum supervision, therefore, you must be able to communicate and solve problems well.
During your boatbuilder apprenticeship, you will have the opportunity to work with associated trades such as Marine Engineers, as a result, you will gain a strong understanding of the marine industry.
Upon successful completion of the boatbuilder apprenticeship, you will be multi-skilled and capable of adapting to changing demands. Boats are becoming more complex, and new materials and methods are regularly being introduced. This means throughout your exciting career as a boatbuilder, you will be learning, adapting, and evolving.
This apprenticeship will be recognised by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) at ‘Engineering Technician’ level on successful completion.
Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprentice working with mentor.
Entry criteria for the Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprenticeship
Wondering how to become a boatbuilder?
Individual employers will identify any relevant entry requirements when applying for a boatbuilder apprenticeship. Most candidates will typically have GCSEs (or equivalent) at A*- C including maths, English, and possibly a relevant science.
If you’re applying for the boatbuilder apprenticeship without GCSE English and maths will need to achieve this level before taking the End-Point Assessment (EPA). Your apprenticeship provider will be able to assist you with this. Head over to ApprenticeNow.com to find out more about this.
For those with an education, health and care plan, or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. A British Sign Language (BSL) qualification is an alternative to the English qualification for those whose primary language is BSL.
Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprentice working with material.
Appropriate safety behaviours individually and towards others
A commitment to quality and continuous improvement
Commercial awareness and business acumen
A focus on the requirements of the customer
An ability to work effectively individually and as part of a team
An ability to communicate with all levels of the organisation
A strong work ethic including motivated, committed, meticulous, reliable, proactive, and adaptable behaviours
A recognition and appreciation of equality and diversity in the workplace
Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprenticeship – Skills
Work method – Skills:
Prepare the work area and maintain safe, clean, and efficient work methods and environments
Identify and minimise hazards and risks in the workplace
Select, use, maintain and store equipment, tools, and materials
Follow and maintain work procedures, method statements, and production records
Make the most efficient and effective use of resources, time, and materials
Identify and respond to customer needs – Skills:
Prepare for meetings and discussions and use appropriate listening, questioning, recording, and presentation techniques
Use appropriate marine terminology
Use estimating techniques to support discussions
Planning and set up – skills:
Review and verify designs and plans
Finalise time and cost of the work to be done
Identify and source equipment, machinery, tools, and materials
Make, produce and use jigs and templates as required
Set up tools and machinery
Manufacture and assemble/ disassemble and repair components – Skills:
Manufacture or repair components to the required specification
Move components using the appropriate safe methods
Check components for robustness, fit, and tolerances
Analyse problems with machinery, equipment,
tools and material, proposing/implementing solutions where appropriate
Move, shape, and manipulate components to achieve the best fit
Select and use appropriate methods for holding materials and components in place, and for the connecting, fixing, and assembly of materials and components
Safeguard materials and components during assembly
Select suitable methods of repair that are effective and maintain original construction
Select suitable methods for fault finding and analysis
Make repairs whilst safeguarding the integrity of components and the surrounding area
Identify, mark, store and organise dismantled parts for reassembly
Fit-out – skills:
Determine the order and work methods
Install and fix components using the most appropriate method and material
Ensure that joins are suitably made and treated
Position and fit items
· Finalise fit-out for deck hardware
Finish – skills:
Check joins are sealed and fit for purpose
Prepare surfaces, treat suitably and ensure are free from defects and protected
Soften or suitably finish edges
Assess the quality of work
Support commissioning and sea trials – Skills:
Assess fixtures and fittings for quality and stability
Contribute to the commissioning of the boat as required
Assemble required documentation
Brief recipients verbally with the necessary documentation
Level 3 Boatbuilder Apprenticeship – Knowledge and understanding
Work methods – Knowledge and understanding:
The purpose of a range of equipment, tools, and materials
The characteristics and reaction of materials to their environment e.g. temperature, humidity, pressure
Safe and efficient methods of use, maintenance, movement, protection, and storage of materials
Work hazards and safe working methods
Broad knowledge of other marine trades to understand their needs
How to produce and interpret engineering drawings and understand boatbuilding terminology
Identify and respond to customer needs – Knowledge and understanding:
The international marine industry and the company’s place within it
The company’s products and services
The role of formal and informal communication
The uses of information technology in the workplace
Principles of costing, pricing, and budgeting
Planning and set up – Knowledge and understanding:
The company’s process for design, planning, and set up
How to obtain the required specifications using selected procedures
The conventions underpinning technical documentation the roles and safe and efficient uses of machinery
The uses of templates
Vessel design and construction, complex shapes, and the applications of geometry
The bill of materials methodology and reporting of discrepancies
Feedback on drawing and specification errors of modifications required
Manufacture and assemble/ disassemble and repair components – Knowledge and understanding:
The appropriate uses of measuring aids and equipment
The basic principles of contingency planning and of problem-solving
The options and constraints during assembly
Working with complex shapes and curves
The scope of materials for shaping and manipulation
Methods ptions for holding and clamping components before assembly
The properties, uses, and limitations of materials for connecting, fixing, and assembling components
De-storing a vessel for repair, safeguarding and protecting all removed items.
Methods of disassembling boats for repair
Fault finding techniques
A range of new and traditional techniques for boatbuilding
Fit out – Knowledge and understanding:
The options for connecting similar and dissimilar materials
Types and uses of deck hardware and the forces applied
The options for fixing components in place
Understanding service and maintenance requirements
Finish – Knowledge and understanding:
The options for connecting similar and dissimilar materials
Types and uses of deck hardware and the forces applied
The options for fixing components in place
Understanding service and maintenance requirements
Support commissioning and sea trials – Knowledge and understanding:
Manufacturers’ specifications and requirements
Guidance for the care and maintenance of materials
The relevant documentation
Boat handling skills
Understand the requirements for basin and sea trials
Principles of practice for working on or near water
Conclusion
As you can see, the level 3 Boatbuilder apprenticeship is an exciting and excellent starting point for anyone looking to pursue a career in boatbuilding. The core skills, knowledge, and behaviours covered in this apprenticeship will open up a range of future opportunities for you.
With an apprenticeship you will earn while you learn, also your training is free to you, and there are plenty of opportunities for further education after completion. Why not take a look at our full list of approved Engineering & Manufacturing Apprenticeships here.
There is currently over 100 approved Engineering & Manufacturing apprenticeship available for employers and apprentices in the UK. These apprenticeships cover a wide range of industry fields such as water treatment, aerospace, fashion, rail engineering and gas networks. This shows the diversity of choice available for Engineering Apprenticeships.
Engineering apprenticeships are offered from level 2 up to level 7 Masters degree and there is a number of progression opportunities for different industry types.
Manufacturing & Engineering Apprenticeships:
Level 2: Abattoir worker Level 3: Accident Repair Technician Level 3: Advanced Baker Level 5: Advanced dairy technologist Level 6: Aerospace engineer (degree) Level 6: Aerospace software development engineer (degree) Level 4: Aircraft maintenance certifying engineer Level 2: Autocare technician Level 3: Automotive glazing technician Level 2: Aviation maintenance mechanic (military) Level 2: Bicycle mechanic Level 3: Boatbuilder Level 4: Brewer Level 3: Bus and coach engineering technician Level 3: Composites Technician Level 6: Control / technical support engineer (degree) Level 6: Electrical / electronic technical support engineer (degree) Level 4: Electrical Power Networks Engineer Level 4: Electrical power protection and plant commissioning engineer Level 6: Embedded electronic systems design and development engineer (degree) Level 3: Engineering design and draughtsperson Level 3: Engineering fitter Level 2: Engineering operative Level 3: Engineering Technician Level 3: Fashion and textiles pattern cutter Level 4: Fashion and textiles product technologist Level 6: Food and drink advanced engineer (degree) Level 3: Food and drink advanced process operator Level 3: Food and drink maintenance engineer Level 2: Food and drink process operator Level 2: Footwear manufacturer Level 2: Furniture manufacturer Level 3: Gas network craftsperson Level 2: Gas network team leader Level 2: General welder (arc processes) Level 3: Heavy vehicle service and maintenance technician Level 3: Heritage engineering technician Level 4: High Speed Rail & Infrastructure Technician Level 3: Leisure & Entertainment Engineering Technician Level 3: Lift and escalator electromechanic Level 3: Maintenance and operations engineering technician Level 6: Manufacturing engineer (degree) Level 6: Manufacturing manager (degree) Level 3: Marine Engineer Level 2: Maritime electrical / mechanical mechanic Level 7: Materials process engineer (Degree) Level 3: Metal casting, foundry & patternmaking technician Level 3: Metal fabricator Level 2: Mineral and construction product sampling and testing operations Level 2: Mineral Processing Mobile and Static Plant Operator Level 2: Mineral processing weighbridge operator Level 3: Motor vehicle service and maintenance technician (light vehicle) Level 3: Motorcycle technician (repair and maintenance) Level 3: Multi-positional welder (arc processes) Level 2: Non-destructive testing (NDT) operator Level 6: Non-destructive testing engineer (degree) Level 3: Non-destructive testing engineering technician Level 2: Nuclear health physics monitor Level 2: Nuclear Operative Level 6: Nuclear scientist and nuclear engineer (degree) Level 5: Nuclear Technician Level 4: Nuclear welding inspection technician Level 6: Ordnance munitions and explosives (OME) professional Level 6: Packaging professional (degree) Level 3: Papermaker Level 7: Post graduate engineer Level 7: Power engineer (degree) Level 3: Power network craftsperson Level 7: Process automation engineer (degree) Level 4: Process leader Level 6: Product design and development engineer (degree) Level 3: Project controls technician Level 4: Propulsion technician Level 5: Rail & rail systems engineer Level 7: Rail & rail systems principal engineer (degree) Level 6: Rail & rail systems senior engineer (degree) Level 4: Rail engineering advanced technician Level 2: Rail engineering operative Level 3: Rail engineering technician Level 3: Refrigeration air conditioning and heat pump engineering Technician Level 7: Risk and safety management professional (degree) Level 4: Road transport engineering manager Level 3: Science industry maintenance technician Level 6: Science industry process/plant engineer (degree) Level 2: Science Manufacturing Process Operative Level 3: Science manufacturing technician Level 2: Sewing Machinist Level 2: Specialist tyre operative Level 3: Survival equipment fitter Level 7: Systems engineering (degree) Level 2: Textile care operative Level 2: Textile manufacturing operative Level 3: Utilities engineering technician Level 4: Vehicle damage assessor Level 3: Vehicle damage mechanical, electrical and trim (MET) technician Level 3: Vehicle damage paint technician Level 3: Vehicle damage panel technician Level 3: Water process technician Level 3: Water treatment technician
